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Editorial: Return the Crown jewel

Critics say the B.C. Ferries system is failing with its predictable cycle of rising fares, falling ridership and service cuts. And they are correct.

Critics say the B.C. Ferries system is failing with its predictable cycle of rising fares, falling ridership and service cuts. And they are correct.

Fares have risen 133 per cent on some routes and at least 85 per cent of the money collected from passengers is used to cover operating costs, according to Islands Trust.

What may have seemed reasonable at the time — B.C. Ferries being like a standalone business — is no longer such a great idea. It really can’t run like a proper business because there are no competitors.

When there are no competitors, most businesses would take advantage. Fares skyrocket upward, taxi drivers get charged for parking, and on and on. Businesses are designed to make money, so you do what you have to do. The only problem is in this case, they are unfairly targeting a captive market that has no other choice than to use what is essentially a public service.

The damage of these rising rates is substantial, especially to small island communities.

And, under the current system, it has no chance of getting better. If it is indeed a business, the folks relying on the smaller routes (read: the money-losing ones), should be expected to pay the freight through substantially higher fares. If you live on a tiny island, too bad. Buck up for that privilege. But very obviously, that’s not what the ferry system was designed for. It is supposed to be our marine highway.

Creative solutions must be found. On routes with little car and passenger traffic, flexibility to alter the number of sailings to reduce cost is also crucial.

But the real first step to finding proper solutions is clear: B.C. Ferries must be returned to its status as a Crown corporation.

Nanaimo Daily News